“We were all extremely close, and we spent a lot of time on the road together. We all grew together. We grew as friends. ... It was really special.”

What hasn’t been special is this Pistons season, a far cry from the team — the 1989 champion Pistons — that will be celebrated at tonight’s game against the Heat.

The 2014 Pistons will miss the playoffs for a sixth straight season.

“I am not tin the position to critique the team,” Thomas said.

“I still sit as a fan waiting like other fans to see the team do well, play well and win.”

Respect is due

If — maybe when — Dumars walks out the door, there is a certain amount of respect he deserves.

Fans should start by not booing him when he is honored tonight. Dumars has been loyal to the franchise.

He’s been part of all three Pistons championships, something no other person can say. And if there is a way, Gores should let Dumars walk away on his terms after this season, if that’s what’s best for all sides.

When Dumars was on top of the world, Thomas often sat in the stands, happy for his teammate and friend, and the team he once played for.

Now, the question is, will Thomas return for the job he thought he would get 20 years ago?

Pistons legend Isiah Thomas, left, greets former NBA commissioner David Stern during a reception at the Book Cadillac Hotel on Thursday in Detroit. / Clarence Tabb Jr / Detroit News

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